This past summer we had plans to check out the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park but never had the opportunity. However, just recently we found ourselves in Vancouver once again and needing to stretch our legs we decided to make our way to #CapBridge.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is located in North Vancouver, off Capilano Road. Famous for its 137 metres (451 feet) bridge that suspends over Capilano River as well as its forest boardwalk, treetop suspension bridges, interpretive centre and newly built cliffwalk, this park is open every day of the year (except Christmas day) and attracts tourists from around the world. However, admission into the park is not cheap. For a family of five (with one child under six) it cost us $115 (February 2017). Because we are residents of British Columbia we converted our day passes into annual passes at Guest Services on the way out (with no extra fee). I’m not sure how many opportunities we’ll have to visit the park in the next year but it made us feel a little better about paying such a steep admission fee.
The park itself is beautifully situated and maintained. When we visited, on a cold misty day at the end of February, there were very few people there. We started with the cliffwalk which my children whipped through so quickly that we did it twice. My children are developing speed and stamina when it comes to walking and hiking (finally!) but this kind of park is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Also, the park is quite strict with safety, especially on the suspension bridge, which is important. My kids, however, are use to a more unrestrained approach to nature. For them nature is a place for jumping on rocks, splashing in water, climbing trees and sprinting through. While they enjoyed exploring the park we had to remind them to stay close and remain on the designated trails.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is really a lovely place and now that we have our annual pass we’ll likely return in the near future. However, if your looking for an outdoorsy adventure where your kids can burn energy in an unrestrained fashion (and for free!) I recommend checking out Lynn Canyon Park, Quarry Rock Trail or Cates Park. Or check out my list of Outdoor Family Adventures in Metro Vancouver.
